In Memory of Gail Rauw

Last month, the Neurochemical Research Unit (NRU) in the Department of Psychiatry lost one of its longest serving and most admired members.  Gail Rauw passed away in March after a long and valiant battle with ALS.  Gail joined the NRU in 1989 and worked as a technologist there for 30 years. She was a gifted lab technologist in her ability to work with analytical methods and equipment, to troubleshoot this very delicate equipment and to oversee many research trainees with patience and tolerance.  She was able to teach in a clear and gentle manner, to pass on the love of accuracy and precision and to make people feel they were important.  Gail was more than a teacher; she was a mentor who everyone wanted to emulate. In 2007, she was one of two winners of the UofA’s prestigious Nat Rutter Outstanding Technician Award. 

Gail had the unreserved support and devotion of her husband, Brian, and her daughters Jennifer and Gillian during her illness.  Many of her friends also kept in touch with her directly or by Zoom.  In 2020, Gail was named that year’s Edmonton Walk to End ALS Ambassador.  Gail left us with many happy memories, and she will be missed greatly.  Anyone wishing to see Gail’s obituary can go to the website of Connelly-McKinley, St Albert.